WINTER 2020 iod.com/scotland Direction The official membership magazine for the Institute of Directors in Scotland

IoD Scotland Conference : Youth can’t be left to pay price of the pandemic

Top tips for fostering innovation and inclusion

Education has to lead recovery Professor Heather McGregor cbe on Scotland’s challenges post-Covid

IoD Scotland Learn from 2020, look & Direction National Director Scotland: forward to 2021 Malcolm Cannon For email enquiries: While the tragic events of 2020 can never be under-estimated, [email protected] it’s vital directors and business leaders raise their heads from W: www.iod.com Address: the crisis and focus on the possibilities the future holds to truly 10 Charlotte Square, build back better, says IoD Scotland Chair Aidan O’Carroll Edinburgh EH2 4DR T: 0131 557 5488

Direction is the official With the news of Tier 4 restrictions being placed Benny Higgins, who delivered our Leadership membership magazine on a large swathe of the Scottish population, the address, laid out the challenges ahead and put of Institute of Directors next few months still look as being a real education and learning at the heart of how Scotland and is challenge in tackling the Covid-19 pandemic. Scotland will succeed. published by: As a result, it is easy to forget the progress that At the IoD, we are ready to play our part in Chamber Media is being made in record time with the providing the highest quality leadership and Services, 4 Hilton Road, development of vaccines that hold the promise business training and this is being delivered Bramhall, Stockport, of helping to bring life back to a greater sense of across several platforms. Take a look at what is Cheshire SK7 3AG normality in 2021. on offer – there is sure to be something relevant While living in the moment will remain to you and your organisation. Advertising sales: stressful for a time yet, we can all look forward For those that aspire to be directors in Colin Regan now to some positive changes that will come in business, our Chartered Director Programme Tel: 07871 444922 / the weeks and months ahead. (CDir) is recognised around the world as a 01942 537959 This was the theme at our first virtual Scotland leading qualification and wherever your Email: colinregan001@ Conference where we explored how ambitions may lie, there is a course and yahoo.co.uk collaboration will drive Scotland’s growth. We programme relevant for you. also explored how exciting opportunities, as well Production: as challenges, lay ahead as we rebuild the As 2021 fast approaches there will be many Rob Beswick economy, create new businesses that can reflections no doubt on the most extraordinary Tel: 0161 426 7957 / harness our Green revolution, and make year that we have perhaps experienced. But 2020 07964 375216 Scotland a true global leader in innovation and will soon be over and the green shoots that we Email: rob@chamber technology that will deliver high-quality jobs, will all be looking forward to seeing in 2021 are mediaservices.co.uk new platforms for growth, and help our new already beginning to emerge. generation of leaders to pick up the mantle and There is much to look forward to, not just Editorial: ‘build back better’. being able to be with family and friends again, Please send press What a great challenge that is for all of us to but creating a more dynamic, caring and releases or editorial for pick up and play our part in. Whatever the collaborative society that will harness the great consideration for future organisation you are in, wherever you are based, business opportunities is something we can all issues of Direction to: all sectors will play an important role in driving be a part of. Kirsten Paul growth. Roll on 2021! Email: kirsten@clark communications.co.uk

Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of material contained within this magazine, neither IoD Scotland nor Chamber Media Services can accept any responsibility for omissions or inaccuracies in its editorial or advertising content. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the IoD. The carriage of advertisements or editorials in this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised.

Cover: Professor Heather Aidan O’Carroll pictured co-hosting this year’s Virtual IoD McGregor, is this issue’s Scotland Conference. Full report, see from pg 24 Leadership Interview. Pg 14. Photo: Suzy Lowe

WWW.IOD.COM 03 News/ Executive comment

Out of adversity comes opportunity

After a year like no other, we have hit the re-set button and prepare for a 2021 full of inspiration, innovation and collaboration, says IoD Scotland National Director Malcolm Cannon

It’s fair to say that 2020 has been a year telling results came from our Brexit unlike any other. The financial, social, questions. 69 per cent of our audience physical and mental health challenges said they were not prepared at all or we have all faced over the past nine only somewhat prepared for Brexit, that our young adults are reaching months have been the most difficult we while two-thirds of participants said employment age with the necessary have seen for 80 years. And it feels like they would benefit from clearer skills to thrive. no amount of past experiences, both guidance both generally and specifically I hope we recognise the benefits that business and personal, could have around supply chains to help them lifelong learning, reskilling and prepared us for it. prepare for the post-Brexit world. upskilling have brought to light this But throughout this time, we have Coronavirus and its devastating year, and that self-improvement in demonstrated great strength in our impact has understandably been at the these areas continues to be a priority for support for neighbours, frontline health top of the agenda for everyone, but this individuals and businesses alike. We workers and in complying with difficult has meant that Brexit preparations have have seen a marked increase in demand and ever-changing restrictions. I hope not been given the attention they for training in governance during the that this community spirit and selfless deserve – from anyone. And as we see crisis as directors realise that they are attitudes towards our peers is something the light at the end of the tunnel as news under-prepared and qualified to handle we will retain as we emerge from this of successful vaccines emerge, we must the challenges facing their businesses. pandemic. learn from our experiences. We should also encourage more I would also like to see the heightened Nelson Mandela once said: “I never collaboration; whether through helping resilience demonstrated during these lose; I either win or I learn” and we others through volunteering, mentoring times become a key skill in 2021 and should adopt his mindset to be better or CSR, or by encouraging two-way beyond. However, to quote our national prepared for next time. For there will be engagement for business and business sports captains at our IoD Conference in a next time; whether it’s another organisations with Government. This November, “If we can only build pandemic, a financial crisis, or a climate dialogue will benefit both parties with a resilience by experiencing hardship, related challenge. better understanding of the other’s many of us may well opt out”. I believe 2021 needs to be a year of perspective. We must not underestimate collaboration and improvement. We One of our biggest lessons from 2020 resilience, as it is this faith in our ability must focus on the young; as Benny must be that we are all in this together. to survive adversity that makes us daring Higgins said at Conference, “we cannot That should give us confidence and and innovative leaders. allow the young generation to pay the encouragement to build a stronger During Conference, we asked biggest price of the pandemic.” If we economy as we transition out of the delegates how they were feeling about work to improve the alignment between pandemic and, indeed, out of the many issues, but some of the most business and academia, we can ensure European Union. International focus on inward investment

The Scottish Government has launched Plan in parliament, the Minister for a targeted inward investment plan that Ivan McKee Trade, Investment and Innovation, Ivan aims to further internationalise McKee, said: “For the past seven years Scotland’s economy. The plan will see Scotland has attracted the most inward effort focused on nine areas of investment of any UK nation or region opportunity in what was described as a outside London. The time is right to fundamental shift of approach. The build on these strong foundations. areas include energy transition, health “The Covid-19 pandemic has technology, the space sector and digital highlighted the need for greater financial and business services. resilience in our economy and to build The Scottish Government said that back better. Scotland’s Inward priority will be given to investors who a year. It said that it was estimated the Investment Plan therefore represents a can build local supply chains, provide plan would have the potential to fundamental shift in focus. Our robust, new skills and invest in research. To increase GDP by £4.2bn, boost exports analytical approach has identified nine encourage the spread of investment by £2.1bn over the next two decades opportunity areas where Scotland’s across Scotland, there will be an emphasis and add up to £680m a year to govern- genuine global strengths, often built on on the creation of regional clusters. ment revenues as it seeks to deliver our academic excellence, align with The Scottish Government will focus 100,000 jobs over the next decade. global investment opportunities and resource on strategic investments, Unveiling Shaping Scotland’s offer the potential to maximise aiming ultimately to allocate up to £20m Economy: Scotland’s Inward Investment economic benefits across the nation.”

04 WWW.IOD.COM New app to bring self-awareness to front-line workers

Insights, the global personal development group, has launched a new app to enhance the self-awareness, teamwork and communication skills of front-line and customer service staff. Insights Explore will help essential employees, including those in retail and hospitality, apprentices, graduates and seasonal employees, learn more about their personality type and how they work with other members of their team – boosting business performance. The launch builds on the long- standing success of Insights Discovery, which has been used by more than six million people over the last 20 years. Chief executive Fiona Logan said: “Insights Explore extends our memorable four-colour model to help front-line workers learn more about UK-first wireless themselves and collaborate more effectively while they are on-the-go. “This fantastic digital solution will electric van charging bring better soft skills and enhanced self-awareness to busy employees and teams, and perfectly complements our long-established, in-depth and more trial at Heriot-Watt personalised Insights Discovery offer.” Insights Explore is designed to be used Heriot-Watt University has received £1.6 This could avert the need for vehicles to on a smartphone as a self-led learning million funding for small commercial return to their depots to be recharged. tool, and introduces workers to the vehicle tests next year, with the focus on Funding for the trial is from the UK Insights colour energies – Fiery Red, technology that will enable electric Government’s Office for Low-Emission Earth Green, Cool Blue and Sunshine batteries to be recharged without the Vehicles through its innovation agency Yellow. need for cables, speeding up the process. Innovation UK. The app includes bite-size video Using charging pads, vehicles are City council fleet manager Scott Millar content to help users learn about parked on top of these with a ‘receiver said: “We are already deploying electric themselves and their colleagues, while pad’ attached to the bottom of the vehicles across our fleet and looking at users can also share their colour energy chassis sending power straight to the ways we can drive adoption in the wider preferences with their co-workers and battery. community. Providing charging wider networks through email and social Heriot-Watt believes the simple infrastructure like shared hubs has the media profiles. process could encourage more firms to potential to play a key part of removing Insights Explore is currently available use electric vehicles and cut emissions. barriers to uptake for both the council in English, French, Spanish and German. The equipment is also future proofed and the community. More languages and additional learning for potential use by autonomous vehicles “We’re excited to take a leadership role content will be added in the coming which have no driver to plug in cables. here as a successful project in Edinburgh months. The university said wireless charging had could present a model for other councils For more information please visit already proved to work for buses, as to use to reduce transport emissions.” info.insights.com/introducing-explore. demonstrated by a test project in Milton Professor Phil Greening, a co-director Keynes. of the Centre for Sustainable Road The joint project with the City of Freight at the university, said: “While Edinburgh Council and Flexible Power highly-utilised shared infrastructure and Systems is due to start in the spring. It collaboration have great potential to will involve specially-adapted university reduce the costs of decarbonising and council vans, with charging last-mile travel, there are complex equipment from Momentum Dynamics. scheduling and commercial trade-offs to The university said the project’s be considered.” success could see van fleets across the Chargers embedded in road surfaces UK using such chargers, which take 30-60 are being tested elsewhere, such as in minutes to top-up batteries. Chargers Dubai and Stockholm, enabling vehicle could be deployed across the country, batteries to be recharged as they are with companies such as delivery firms driven along without the need for able to book time slots for their vehicles. stopping.

WWW.IOD.COM 05 News

Par Equity appoints industry veteran to lead Aberdeen office

Venture capitalist firm, Par Equity Anderson Anderson & Brown is to open its first regional which are intended to be the investment network, headed “eyes and ears” of the up by financial services initiative, spotting early industry veteran, Hugh stage opportunities and Little. undertaking due diligence Little will lead the new on potential investments. Positive wind of north-east investment Mr Atkinson said: “We network as chairman and see huge potential in the change for port spearhead efforts to identify Aberdeen market for new investors for the investors to be part of some The port of Cromarty Firth is to business, as well as potential of the UK’s most exciting partner with French offshore wind investment targets among early innovative firms. firm Ideol, in a deal which could stage disruptive technology companies “We are hands-on investors, providing create more than 500 Scottish in Aberdeen and the surrounding area. experience and knowledge, as well as construction jobs. Par Equity said Mr Little gave it financial support. Following our success The agreement would see the “unparalleled” business and investment with EC-OG and Star Net, we are looking company and its future local knowledge amassed at Aberdeen Asset forward to discovering more construction partners developing the Management, where he built a opportunities among Aberdeen’s young port’s land and Firth berthing sites. successful private equity business before companies. Facilities and infrastructure will be becoming head of acquisitions for 10 “Hugh will be key to our success in the developed to establish a concrete hull years. He was also a director of north-east and his unrivalled knowledge serial manufacturing yard for Aberdeen Football Club for 12 years and of the local business landscape as well as incoming floating wind tenders. has been a non-executive director of his breadth of contacts makes Aberdeen In addition to creating business several private equity-backed the ideal place to begin our regional opportunities for local suppliers, the companies in the region. network strategy.” manufacturing would create a mix of Par Equity’s expansion to the north- The company is focused on skilled and semi-skilled work in the east is expected to add to more than 200 investments in small, innovative area. existing investors who have backed 60 businesses with high growth potential. The port described the partnership companies to the tune of £80 million It expects to see a “proven substantive as a vote of confidence in its ability to since the business was founded by serial product or service that has clear global help support the expansion of wind angel investor Paul Atkinson in 2008. application”. Three-quarters of the firms power off the Scottish coast – a pipe- Its new north-east network is it has invested in to date have appointed line of development predicted to be supported by law firm Addleshaw a member of its investment network to worth over £26bn just in the first round Goddard and accountancy group their boards. of 10 gigawatt development sites.

We want to say Halo to 200 new cyber trainees

HALO Kilmarnock, an Ayrshire-based Anderson Strathern, and within start-up programme offering digital and cyber companies based at The HALO, with the skills training, has announced that it will hope that these work placements will be able to support 200 16-24 year old result in full-time opportunities. trainees when it opens in May next year Marie Macklin, founder and executive following the commitment of £1.5 chair of The HALO Urban Regeneration million of funding by the UK Company, said: “My vision is that The Government under its Kickstart Scheme. HALO creates a cyber army of young The training will result in a HALO people who will gain the skills necessary accredited qualification to support to go out into the UK’s businesses, third future employment opportunities. sector and public sector organisations to The HALO Cyber Course will be fight the ever-increasing number of designed by Mandy Haeburn-Little, the cyber criminals who are threatening this former CEO of the Scottish Business country. Resilience Centre. The training will be On completion of their first six months “This funding from UK Government is the catalyst for further courses and will of training and work experience, it is a great kick-start for the scheme and will entail a combination of on-site training hoped that participants will then be able make a significant contribution to the and e-learning, aiming to prepare the to enter a six-month work placement. UK’s future cyber security. But I don’t participants with life skills and expertise These placements are expected to be want to stop at 200. I believe we could suitable for employment in a range of with a range of different companies, create opportunities for as many as 500 fields. such as ScottishPower, Barclays and young people a year at The HALO.”

06 WWW.IOD.COM Shift to home working more evident and could be here to stay

New research has found that more than a improved productivity. Almost three- quarter of companies have permanently quarters (72 per cent) said homeworking reduced their office space with more has increased during the pandemic. people working from home. More generally, 40 per cent of firms The data from the latest Scottish expect a drop in the volume of business Business Monitor, the regular survey of over the next six months and a similar more than 500 firms produced by proportion said they expect to cut staff Addleshaw Goddard and the Fraser of numbers before the end of 2020. Allander Institute at the University of Fraser of Allander Institute director Strathclyde, also found that just one in 10 Graeme Roy said: “Unsurprisingly, the businesses believe homeworking has more prevalent, according to the survey, majority of businesses in Scotland remain improved productivity. with 28 per cent of companies saying they apprehensive about the outlook. The Positively, business activity in the third have made a “permanent reduction in decision to extend furlough to March will quarter of 2020 had improved, but office footprint”. clearly have been a great relief to many concerns were raised about business Asked about the impact of businesses and their employees. activity and job losses over the next six homeworking on staff productivity, 10 “This survey found that many months. per cent of firms said it has improved companies were planning on cutting Working from home could become while 49 per cent said the change has not back their staffing levels.” Innovate to recover – and look Golden Charter Trust to academic expertise for help appoints new trustees The Golden Charter Trust, a UK- Research by Interface has identified that based funeral plan trust with a value businesses should be grasping the in excess of £1 billion, has appointed opportunities brought by R&D in Clare Brady and Christine Johnson to partnership with academics to help them its board. innovate, adapt and overcome the Clare Brady, who worked at the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic. World Bank as auditor general for Dr Siobhán Jordan, director of four years, was also previously a Interface, said: “Through our annual managing director of Deutsche Bank results we have demonstrated a real and more recently a director at the buoyancy and desire by companies to International Monetary Fund. She is transform rapidly through innovation. In currently a director of Fidelity Asia fact, 53 per cent of companies recently Values PLC and a member of the surveyed thought that creating innovative audit and risk commission of the solutions to problems should be the top International Red Cross. priority of businesses in future. Christine Johnson currently serves “It is well documented that companies to support company-led challenges that on a number of other boards that innovate are more resilient in a crisis, deliver new and/or improved products, including Invesco Enhanced Income more likely to expand into new markets processes and services in short time Trust and CCLA, a specialist during disruptions and more likely to be scales. responsible-investing asset manager. able to retain staff and grow in difficult The key to success and in enabling She previously held a number of trading conditions. positive impacts on Scotland’s economy senior investment roles at RSA, “The pandemic required urgent ideas, and communities is the speed in which Investec, HSBC and most recently as solutions and immediate interventions. business-academic collaborations have head of fixed income at Old Mutual Interface, working in partnership with been set up, as well as Interface’s ability Global Investors. universities and colleges, has delivered to target funding from a variety of UK Their appointments follow outstanding results. We had our highest bodies to support SME businesses’ the announcement level of collaborations in this past academic partnerships with academics. that Gareth Howlett year, up to July, with 329 projects delivered, Dr Jordan added: “Partnerships with will take over the creating and safeguarding 77 jobs. universities and colleges are vital to scale chairmanship of Delivering a 22 per cent year-on-year businesses with the consequent benefits the Golden increase in partnerships and investments of job creation and enhanced profits. We Charter Trust in innovation clearly demonstrates that all have a part to play in supporting the from April 2021. the entrepreneurial spirit in Scotland is business community to rapidly realise thriving even during a time of crisis.” innovative ideas, champion new business Pictured: Clare The past six months have also shown models, protect and create jobs to Brady the desire by academics of all disciplines future-proof our economy.”

WWW.IOD.COM 07 Downtime

All I want for I’ll Alpaca that! Christmas is... tech As tougher coronavirus restrictions hang Tis the season to shop (albeit most likely over our heads and the UK settles into online this year). If you are struggling to the idea of a ‘digital Christmas’, the know what to get a loved one who is into race is on to find home accessible all things tech, the lovely team at WIRED experiences that give the holiday have pulled together their top tips on that extra little bit of sparkle. what will be hot for “kids, teenagers and The latest offering from adults who make solid life choices...” Bowbridge Alpacas does just. The WIRED team has included A family-run operation everything from coding kits for kids, a specialising in alpaca trekking, drone and a vinyl turntable. But it’s the Bowbridge Alpacas has Robot Wars-esque Laser Battle Hunters remodelled its business offering that we at Downtime like the look of. after it was forced to close during With a top speed of 4.3km/hr, it might lockdown. The farm, based in Cupar, now not amount to anything on the M8, but in offer an entirely digital experience with your living room the Battle Hunters have their beloved alpacas via Zoom in what is the ability to create some serious drama being hailed as the ‘Alpaca Party’. – as well as the very high possibility of With three packages ranging from £30-£99, attendees taking off an ankle or two. Not your can interact with the alpacas via video link, gaining average remote-control toy, Laser Battle insights into their individual character and personalities. Hunters are fully functional radio control Also included is the adoption of your very own alpaca and vehicles that can move forward, back and a chance to meet newborn alpacas in spring 2021. spin at a speedy rate and create some thrilling action. If you want to involve more players, you can add up to eight at the same time A Titanic tour, to 3 miles down – but you’ll have to pay for the extra cars. There’s also an option that turns one At 2.20am on the 15th April 1912, the Laser Battle Hunter into a moving target luxururious and seemingly unsinkable that you have to try and blast while it fires passenger liner, Titanic, plunged into the at you for a minute. Glorious. icy depths of the Atlantic Ocean. Since then, the sinking of the iconic vessel has become one of the most-told tragedies in modern history and has laid the foundations for a host of movies, books and even musicals. At a depth of around three miles below Costing roughly 500 times the price of the ocean’s surface, a real-life experience the average Titanic ticket in today’s of the Titanic has been something money, ‘mission specialists’ will pay up to reserved almost exclusively for diving £96,000 to take part in the eight-day professionals and scientists. voyage which starts from Newfoundland That is one thing tour company Ocean in Canada and includes travel to the site, Gate Expeditions is determined to change. as well as a submarine tour of the wreck. It has launched large-scale commercial Who knows, you might even find some trips to the underwater shipwreck. treasure down there… Top or bottom? You’re taking the biscuit!

As a nation of biscuit lovers, there’s one topic that is sure to divide even the most humble of confectionary connoisseurs; does the softer texture of a Jaffa Cake strip it of its biscuit beginnings or is the sweet treat more apt in the cake aisle? While the controversy surrounding a Jaffa Cake’s rightful place on our supermarket shelves rages on, (fuelled Thus, if you’ve been lucky enough to by First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon who Well, apparently, eating the biscuit indulge in the chocolate orange recently announced that it was, in fact, (cake?) at all is enough to spark a favoured snack by nibbling at the a biscuit) another, arguably more reaction. It seems we’ve been eating chocolate/orangey bit first, you have shocking debate has arisen from the Jaffa Cakes entirely wrong. According probably been eating it upside down. depths of Jaffa HQ. to a JC spokesperson, the chocolate That said, it is 2020, so just about But what could possibly top the part of the treat isn’t actually the top, everything has been turned on its head biscuit/cake debate, I hear you ask? it’s the bottom. or, in Jaffa Cake speak, its chocolate. 08 WWW.IOD.COM

Behind the Desk: Marshall C. Dallas / SQA

‘Next big thing? How about a Covid vaccine!’

Name: Marshall C. Dallas Position: Chief Executive Company: Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) Number of employees: 54 Short overview of organisation: Located in the heart of Edinburgh, the EICC is an international venue for conferences, events and festival performances. We are passionate about helping our clients to deliver engaging and impactful events which drive positive change.

What is the greatest recurring What keeps you awake at night? Even leaders aren’t the finished article. challenge you come across in your role, All of the above!! What’s next in your leadership and what’s your strategy for dealing development journey? with it? What makes a good leader great? In my opinion there is no such thing My biggest challenge as CEO of EICC is A great leader must firstly have a as the finished article. You can reflect on achieving growth in top-line sales and vision for their organisation. They your journey once you have retired bottom-line profits consistently, year should possess solid and consistent when you can honestly assess where after year. Five out of the last six years business and personal standards which you got to in your career, but until then we have hit record sales and operating should never be compromised. you should always be looking for ways profits and it gets increasingly difficult At the same time, a great leader to improve on your own performance. to maintain these levels of growth. My should be perceptive and thoughtful For me, over the next 5-7 years, I want to growth strategy starts and ends with regarding their team members. Accept utilise my skills and experience more in employing the best people who have an that the most dynamic and prolific order to make a positive impact on amazing work ethic, great creativity, a people can be challenging sometimes other people’s careers. passion for enquiry conversation and but the important point is not to tenacious but kind personalities. smother them with too many rules or What is the ‘next big thing’ that will barriers to getting the job done. People transform your sector? Who, or what, drives you or inspires feel motivated when you encourage A Covid-19 vaccine that works and is you? them to demonstrate their own skills implemented with integrity!! My family, my team and my desire to and capabilities. Great leaders should win and to do the right thing. rejoice with the team when things go What piece of technology do you rely well and when mistakes are made, they on most? What is your long-term vision for the should have a detailed understanding of Equipment and technology at EICC is organisation that you lead? why. They should also understand and a hugely important part of the business We revitalised our vision for the accept that great individuals or teams success. I invest hundreds of thousands company just a few years ago, and it is generally don’t set out to fail, but of pounds every year in technology ‘To create an environment which inevitably mistakes do happen. Most progression as it advances so quickly. inspires ideas that change the world.’ mistakes should be highlighted with I couldn’t work without my laptop It is a vision which feels more relevant supportive corrective action taken to and mobile phone! and meaningful than ever right now, ensure the organisation and individuals and one which I aim to progress by can quickly move on. What is your favourite social media building and operating a high-end hotel platform, and what does it bring to and hotel training school within walking Have you had a mentor, and what did your business/organisation? distance of the EICC. he/she add to your development? Twitter for marketing, LinkedIn for By doing this we will take our I haven’t had a formal mentor but I business development. company revenues from £12.5m T/O to have been continually inspired and over £40m per annum. motivated by those who I work with – What leadership advice would you give We currently have the funding in both at the EICC and in previous roles. your younger self? place; a developer to build the This has helped to shape how I work as I Be kinder to yourself. Don’t be afraid 362-bedroom hotel and school; and an strive to always do the right thing for my of making mistakes. Have more appointed franchisor. team and the company. confidence in your actions. 10 WWW.IOD.COM Innovative apprenticeships are delivering SQA qualifications

Across Scotland, employers and training providers are delivering innovative Modern Apprenticeship programmes. Much creative hard work is enabling young people to continue their training and development despite the challenges the pandemic continues to present. Melrose-based training provider SDConsultancy is using an online e-portfolio approach that allows apprentices to progress with their SQA qualifications and assessments – key components of the Modern Apprenticeship programme. Director Sarah Dalrymple says that in the current climate, apprenticeships are more important than ever. Fife College is offering the new that it is important that SQA continues to Sarah adds: “We believe that Modern qualifications and Assistant Principal Iain offer apprenticeship training opportunities. Apprentices need to be at the heart of Hawker says that over a hundred local Sarah Anne adds: “Our Modern economic recovery. We have the most young people are set to benefit from the Apprenticeship programme, Pathway, amazing opportunity to work with programme this year. helps young people develop transferable employers and candidates just now, to Iain adds: “The Foundation Apprenticeship skills in an interesting and supportive really bring the value of adapted training is a brilliant way for pupils to develop environment. and development into focus. technical and meta skills as part of their “They also gain a Scottish Vocational “With the adaptations to remote school timetable. Qualification (SVQ) in Business and observations using digital platforms, we “Achieving the qualifications and Administration, which demonstrates to were able to efficiently proceed with our engaging with employers at an early stage future employers that their skills meet a ‘new’ form of delivery.” in their learning will mean that whatever national standard.” This approach has allowed the Modern they choose to do after school, the As an employer offering work-based Apprentices undertaking Management, transition will be easier for them.” qualifications, SQA recognises the and Digital Marketing programmes to Not only tasked with supporting young importance of supporting businesses and continue their training during lockdown. people working across the country, SQA training providers to deliver them safely. In video calls with Sarah, the apprentices has committed to further developing its SQA is working with sector bodies to discuss the practical aspects of their own workforce and recently recruited six minimise the impact of the pandemic on courses, which they will undertake when school leavers to join its own Modern candidates’ learning and SQA Regional they are able to return to work. Apprenticeship programme. Managers are in regular contact with Collaboration with employers and Sarah Anne Rooney, SQA Employee training providers. training providers is not just at the heart Development Programme Manager, says of the Modern Apprenticeship Information on how SQA is supporting programme but is also fundamental to the delivery of vocational qualifications Scotland’s Foundation Apprenticeships. can be found at A new Foundation Apprenticeship https://www.sqa.org.uk/etpsupport programme has recently been launched Our Modern Apprenticeship by SQA and Skills Development Scotland programme, Pathway, helps young For more information on the new

(SDS). ‘‘ Foundation Apprenticeships pilot, Around 30 schools, colleges, and people develop transferable skills in please contact training providers across Scotland are an interesting and supportive [email protected]. involved in the initial pilot, which will see environment‘‘ Information on SQA qualifications that pupils in S3 to S6 work towards new SQA Sarah Anne Rooney, underpin Modern Apprenticeships, qualifications at SCQF Levels 4 and 5. SQA Employee Development Foundation Apprenticeships, and The pupils will also complete a Programme Manager work-based challenge unit by partnering Graduate Apprenticeships, can be found with a local employer to design, develop, at https://www.sqa.org.uk/ and deliver a project. apprenticeships 11 Technical briefing: Inclusivity

Become an enthusiast for change

If we’re looking for positives to come out of 2020 – and my word, we all need some of those – then let’s hope it is a greater acceptance of the views of others in society, and a recognition of the values everyone brings to the table, says Alexandra Mancini

Ever the optimist, I like to think we all not have been open to consider. inclusive and diverse community is that agree that an inclusive and diverse Arguably, we may also have found by really hearing and embracing collection of people is society’s not-so- that the pandemic has had something of individualisms, new ideas come to the secret, trialled and tested foundation to a progressive impact by organically fore. When we converse with people effective decision making and more staving off unconscious bias due to an who are and think differently, it’s akin to well-rounded, empathetic communities. increase in working virtually: on a Zoom winning the ideas lottery… and who We each come to the table with a or a phone call we can’t necessarily see doesn’t need a wee win in these varied diversity of thought. To further or hear someone’s perceived difference, unsettling times?! upskill us, broaden our mindsets and hence increasing the chances of people We each could and should do a little horizons, we need to purposefully pick being more included. more to tip the scale and pull people up; people for our tables that bring their ‘It’s harder to be it if we can’t see it,’ people who are often overlooked and in differences, too. We can’t move the dial goes the old saying, so let’s corral the the minority. on breaking societal, economic and pioneers and include those that are Something to think about: it’s said political ceilings if we aren’t including different, to empower others to see and that we are the summation of the five people from all walks of life. be too. people we spend the most time with. Finding a silver lining in a pandemic Scotland is globally known for its Who sits at your table? Are they was always going to be a stretch but history of free thinkers. Now more than stretching you? Making you a better positively, it has brought unity and ever we should enable, facilitate and version of yourself? A simultaneous people together who normally wouldn’t create opportunities for more pioneers responsive and defensive approach is socialise. At a granular societal level, it – our future selves will thank us required to increase opportunities for has forced us to break down barriers, immeasurably. Those lucky enough to more diversity and inclusion across the thus highlighting the diversity of be in the position of leadership need to board. challenges that many people face not work hardest for those who aren’t, to Should we succeed it will be a just now, but had faced before Covid. ensure they’re included and heard. This perpetual and infiltrative win-win for Pre March 2020, it could be said that is about us as individuals all making the now, and for our future generations. we were all mostly focused on our own intentional, transparent and consistent lives and achieving our own goals but effort to choose and embrace • Alexandra Mancini is co-Chair of IoD now we’re forced to start noticing, differences, however small, and respect Scotland’s Diversity and Inclusion recognising and working with each that everyone thinks and works in their Working Group other more. As a result, we are privy to own way. You can contact her at YDF.Chair@iod. other points of view that previously may The exciting thing about a more com or via twitter @lexmancini.

The exciting thing about a more inclusive and diverse‘‘ community is that by really hearing and

embracing individualisms, new

ideas come to the fore. When we converse with people who are and think differently,‘‘ it’s akin to winning the ideas lottery… 12

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The Leadership Interview: Professor Heather McGregor cbe

Scotland’s Covid recovery plans must start with education

Professor Heather McGregor cbe on the challenges of the pandemic, the importance of having a different focus and the joy of celebrating other people’s successes

Words: Rob Beswick some cases it is preserving jobs that are (see page 17). Heather thinks it illustrates being threatened by technology anyway. “the pathway we need to follow.” Key Photos: Suzy Lowe We would have been better served, among these will be “aligning the perhaps, using this time to train people university’s work with creating inclusive for the jobs of the future.” economic growth and expanding fter what has been an There’s clearly no quick fix, though, sectors such as the green/low carbon intense year for everyone, and Scotland’s post-Covid response economy where the jobs of the future the focus for 2021 has to be “has to take a considered, long-term will be, as well as focusing on the skills Scotland’s post-Covid-19 view. We won’t have a full recovery until and the expertise the economy will recovery. But the buzz- after we have mass vaccinations – and need.” phrase ‘build back better’ doesn’t quite by that I don’t just mean for the UK and “Reskilling/retraining the workforce is cutA it with Professor Heather McGregor… the West, but for the whole world.” going to be paramount … but so will she would much rather we focused on While we await that day “we need to building the so-called ‘softer skills’ such building back ... “different”. utilise Scotland’s world-class education as resilience, emotional intelligence and “The ‘build back better’ notion system to build back… differently.” self-motivation,” she said. suggests everything was wrong before She has been hugely encouraged by Employability skills will also be key, the pandemic,” she points out. “It early moves from the Government and and she’s proud that providing these wasn’t. But I do think we need to build other key stakeholders on this issue. has long been a cornerstone of back differently; we need a new focus,” “The priority was the health response, Edinburgh Business School’s offer to and that focus has to put education very which was absolutely right, but after students. “We try to give our students much front and centre. that the Government took steps early on practical skills for the workplace, Heather – Executive Dean of to create the education-led recovery we helping them become ‘job-ready’. But Edinburgh Business School at Heriot- need. It was a good idea to call in people more than that we look at their personal Watt University and winner of the like Benny Higgins and Sandy Begbie to skills. We are starting to ask them all to Chairman’s Award at this year’s IoD oversee the economic impact Covid has create an impact statement, allowing Scotland Director of the Year awards – had and gauge what Scotland’s them to develop their own sense of thinks the pandemic offers a chance to economy will look like, and what skills it purpose. It’s a great way of building re-skill the workforce like never before, will need, in the future.” resilience and a true sense of identity.” giving them, as she sees it, “the skills As part of an attempt to build the It’s something Heather has done they need for the future.” post-Covid landscape, Heriot-Watt herself: “I’ve posted my own impact “I understand why the Government University has launched its own statement on Twitter; it sets out my introduced the furlough scheme but in Prospectus for Recovery and Growth goals, what I’m looking to achieve and

14 WWW.IOD.COM how I will go about reaching those goals.” But if all that looks ahead to the world after 2020 has receded into the memory as a particularly bad dream, what has this appalling year been like for her? One word: “Busy. I’ve never known a schedule be so hectic.” Heather acknowledges that in this, she’s not alone. “What’s been unique about this crisis is that it’s been the same across the board. It hasn’t mattered which sector you’re in, the workload has been off the scale. I sit on a number of boards and the sheer volume of work, the number of meetings, the facts to handle, it’s been exhausting.” At Edinburgh Business School the challenge has been how to continue teaching in a Covid-secure way. “Applying the regulations, handling student visa issues, what to do with students who are forced to isolate… every facet of the Business School has had to re-examine its role, its structures and its purpose.” Universities have been a focal point of media attention since students went back to their studies in the autumn, and Covid-19 forced a complete re-think of teaching methods. Even more challenging is the nature of the Business School’s students themselves: of the 15,000 on roll, 9,000 are based away from campus. Has that caused particular challenges? “We’ve reassessed all our tuition. The big set-piece lectures, such as our Introduction to Economics course, which we teach to 1,000 students around the world and might have 300 students attend at any one time, is now being delivered online. I’d guess lectures such as that are likely to stay that way in the future. But we are continuing with in-person small group tutorials; we’ve established a hybrid model of in-person/ online that is working well.” As with everyone else, Heather is keen to grasp any benefits that have arisen from the pandemic. “Putting lectures online has given students more flexibility and freedom to access their learning at a time that suits them.” That extra flexibility could improve inclusivity in the future, attracting students from a broader cross-section of society. Interestingly, among those studying off-campus, “we’ve seen a rise in demand for more of our sychonronous revision sessions and virtual ‘face-to- face’ learning.” The turmoil 2020 has created at the We need to utilise Scotland’s

Business School is mirrored across the world-class education...‘‘ reskilling/ country. “If your business has been badly retraining the workforce is going hit by Covid you’ve been fighting to stay ‘‘ afloat and you’ve been busy; if your to be of paramount importance to business has been doing well throughout the Covid recovery... the pandemic, you’re struggling to keep Professor Heather McGregor on top of the regulations and restrictions. Whichever way I turn, I’m seeing people working harder than they’ve ever worked before.” Continued on pg 16 WWW.IOD.COM 15 The Leadership Interview: Professor Heather McGregor

Strategic change that previously

took months‘‘ to implement was handled in weeks, days even... I think Covid will‘‘ prove to be transformative in the way we approach change in the future

Continued from page 15 One of the other roles that gives Heather enormous satisfaction is sitting on the Honours Committee for the Economy, evaluating business candidates for Queen’s Birthday and New Year’s honours. “This year we were determined to reward business people who had done so much for their local communities during the first lockdown. It was very inspiring. One story that really struck a chord with me was David Maguire’s. His restaurant is next door to Gartnavel Hospital in Glasgow. When he learned that the hospital had had to close its staff cafeteria, he repurposed his restaurant to offer free pizzas to hospital staff. He also organised deliveries to people who were self- isolating and sent out food to churches and community centres. “It was an extraordinarily warm- hearted gesture at a time when he would have been forgiven for focusing on his own problems.” Such a response has been played out again and again across the country – and it has given what has been a terrible situation a positive, human touch. But it hasn’t just been the kindness behind Scotland’s response to Covid-19 that has impressed; the speed with which businesses responded was breathtaking. “People reacted to the a business owner. I decided to learn to in the problems of broadband – pandemic at lightning pace; strategic fly; I invested time in something that download speeds, upload speeds – and change that previously took months to demanded discipline and focus. It gave produced a series of short films that we implement was handled in weeks, days me a release from the pressures of can use at the School. I was really even. I think Covid will prove to be business life.” pleased with them.” transformative in the way we approach If a strategy works... fast forward to a Spielberg might not yet have a rival, change in the future.” very different crisis in 2020 and this time but then, can Spielberg do his own Heather’s personal take on the first Heather’s ‘distraction’ was two-fold. accounts? “I also enrolled on a lockdown was to make sure she took “I’ve never been particularly techie but I management accountancy course. I’ve something positive out of it – as she had wanted to produce some video course gained credits towards the qualification done previously when a global crisis had notes on things like cashflow for my through my career and so thought I’d hit. “Back in 2008, when the financial students at the Business School, so I put them to good use and take the crash hit, it was such an intense period learnt how to film and record short course properly.” that I needed something to take myself presentations. Best of all… “first exam this summer… away from the day-to-day grind of being “I bought all the kit, immersed myself passed!”

16 WWW.IOD.COM That sense of purpose is key to Heather’s leadership style – but there are A prospectus for Scotland’s recovery other drivers. “If asked, I’ll say I’m a Heriot-Watt University launched its Prospectus for Recovery and Growth to delegator. I hate micro-managing – or support the global recovery efforts in relation to Covid-19. Recognising that the being micro-managed myself.” pandemic has resulted in an unparalleled global health and economic crisis, From the outset it’s her philosophy to universities must continue to educate, research and innovate, playing a critical “assume competence in the people role in the post Covid-19 recovery and supporting a sustainable, green economic around me and trust them… until they recovery. The Prospectus sets out four primary commitments, and prove me wrong! I look to empower accompanying actions, focused on the following areas: people, to give them the responsibility • Aligning our research to inclusive economic growth and green recovery to set their own agenda. And I love • Focusing our research strengths and commercialisation celebrating their success.” activities on enabling sustainable economic growth and Is that her principal driver? “Yes, supporting the green recovery. overwhelmingly so. I’m hugely • Focusing on the skills and expertise we need for the future motivated by other people’s • Inspiring young people to be ambitious, resilient and achievements, particularly those of enterprising. women. My career has been divided up into four distinct sectors – I was in Heriot-Watt is committed to maximising opportunities for financial marketing and PR, then moved innovation and drive impactful socio-economic benefits, into investment banking and took an drawing on its research strengths and supporting its MBA, before buying a business and students, researchers, businesses and communities to being an entrepreneur, then becoming a recover and prosper. full-time academic. In each sector I’ve learnt so much from others, and been You can download the prospectus at inspired by those around me and drawn www.hw.ac.uk/uk/business/economic-recovery.htm energy from their success.” Her clear delight at being around inspiring people isn’t just reserved for household names – though working really bright student who had graduated Chief Medical Adviser. To think that I’m with people such as Melinda Gates and from a Russell Group university two impacting on the lives of people who Baroness Helena Morrissey has certainly years ago, but she’s still working as a will go on and achieve that level of been hugely beneficial. Yet her most waitress. Why hasn’t she secured a success is really inspiring – that helps inspiring person “is a young woman I professional role? Is a degree enough motivate me and keeps me going.” met while she was still at university. She nowadays? We need to give young It’s really positive to know that was remarkable: very focused, with clear people more than just the base skills; we someone whose contribution to objectives. She threw herself at her need to ensure they have ‘employability’ Scotland’s business life has been so studies and had a very strong sense of so they can find a place in their sector notable that she received this year’s IoD purpose. and thrive. Chairman’s Award, takes her own “I remember thinking that she had “That’s Scotland’s next big challenge.” inspiration from the achievements of achieved far more in her young life than As for Heather, what’s the one thing others – particularly in this most I’d achieved in mine. She was constantly challenging of years. investing in herself, looking to develop “It’s been hard but we have to look for her skills and improve. That she has the positives. There’s a real appetite for gone on to have a very successful career change in Scotland, post-Covid, a was no surprise. Is a degree enough nowadays? chance to hit re-set. I think we’ve all

“To be that disciplined, that driven We need to give young people been encouraged by the kindness and to be that effective – surely, that’s ‘‘ shown by so many and the response of how we all should aim to be.” more than just the basic skills... business. It’s been tough – but overall, Heather has always looked to we need to ensure‘‘ they have inspiring.” champion talent, particularly when employability so they can find a Has that been the brightest light? people are struggling to get ahead in “Funnily enough, the highlight for me sectors which have yet to reach true place in their sector and thrive has been much more personal: it was diversity and inclusivity. “I’m a great my son coming back to live with me. believer in the old phrase, ‘if you can’t “He’s 21 and a student in the United see it, you can’t be it,” she says. States and I suppose we assumed he’d “I set up the Taylor Bennett never live under our roof again. Foundation to help BAME students “However, he came back to Scotland access careers in the media and she would like to leave as her legacy? in March and stayed with us until communications industry, as too many “That I made a difference. I’ve always August. weren’t getting the start they needed.” strived to do so, but since I entered “It was lovely having him back with us While it’s been successful she higher education I’ve realised what a and I learned a lot from him. I saw the acknowledges that it still has a role to privileged position I hold. I’m affecting pandemic through a 21-year-old’s eyes, play. “Scotland has come a long way but thousands of people’s lives at any one and got to understand its impact on his we still need to do more before we’re a time, in a positive way. It’s a great generation. fully inclusive society. There is work to feeling. “It was very grounding to have a do, particularly in giving young people “I look back at the Business School’s different point of view on what were access to opportunities and developing alumni and they include the current extraordinary times.” their employability skills. Prime Minister of Somalia and Professor Proof that diversity of thought brings “I was looking at one case recently, a Chris Whitty, the UK Government’s benefits, whatever the circumstances!

WWW.IOD.COM 17 Technical briefing:

Top tips for fostering innovation in SMEs

Helping to plan for next year’s CAN DO Innovation Summit has seen Nathalie Agnew, Managing Director, Muckle Media, consider how Scotland’s businesses can build for the future

This year has brought unprecedented challenges to businesses in most parts of the world, Scotland included. SMEs dominate Scottish business and play a central role in driving longer-term productivity and growth. How these firms survive, adjust and adapt to the Covid-19 crisis will have an enormous bearing on future economic and societal welfare in Scotland for years to come. While my business hasn’t been entirely unscathed, we’ve been fortunate to win new clients including the CAN DO Innovation Summit, a virtual event to be hosted from Scotland in February next year that will help SMEs adopt new technologies, build progressive working cultures and access the right support to enable innovation- led recovery and growth. The summit got me thinking about how SMEs can build their potential through innovation, at a time when inclusive, sustainable growth and resilience will be so vital. Here are my solutions, it’s more important than ever that help them explore new possibilities top tips: for businesses to embrace technologies and gain competitive advantage in new to stay competitive. markets. Start with a culture open to innovation Testing and adopting the latest People’s workplace behaviours and technologies to find new solutions Seek out the support you need to grow expectations have shifted dramatically requires a few key ingredients: the right SMEs need support to reach their true in recent months and we have plenty to knowledge and skills, money and time. potential, in terms of money and other consider in how working cultures are Some of these can be in short supply at resources. Supporting and encouraging changing. the moment. But focusing on the right business innovation lies at the heart of Innovation shouldn’t just come from technology to support core business Scotland CAN DO, a framework that sets management teams; in fact, often those needs will ultimately help you and your a vision to make Scotland a world- who are at the front line of your team save time, money and build leading entrepreneurial and innovative business are the best placed to resilience. nation. Seek out funding and resource recommend incremental changes and options that will help you get where you new innovation opportunities that Collaborate towards success want to, and when the chance comes, might better serve your business and SMEs have a major role to play in return the favour. customers. economic recovery as their size, agility Scotland is already a leader in and outlook mean they often see things innovation. We should celebrate that Embrace technology solutions in a different way and take a counter- and take advantage of new Technology today is central to our intuitive approach when rising to opportunities that will help us tackle business processes and as with many challenges and solving problems. some of the biggest challenges of our aspects of business, if you can get it right Businesses need trusted platforms for time. when you’re small then it’s easier to connection more than ever and events scale up when you grow. Whether its can help SMEs across all sectors to make Tickets for the virtual CAN DO cloud computing, CRM software or the right connections – with academics, Innovation Summit are free and supply chain, logistics and e-commerce investors, entrepreneurs and others – available at www.candoinnovation.scot.

18 WWW.IOD.COM Ken Morrice, founding managing partner, MM Search, looks at the growth in demand for interim executives and asks, can this be the ultimate recruitment win-win for all sides? Let’s celebrate the rise of the interim professional

As Scotland’s business landscape that the growth is driven in part by the be found with the support of proven continues to flex and bend with the impact of the changing business individual interims. changes that have been both enforced landscape, but also because many They also have the advantage of a and embraced, some obvious, and professionals are adopting new working wide array of experience having worked surprising, trends are emerging, practices. Market perceptions of the across many companies and so have a particularly in recruitment. interim market are changing too, and wider view of tried and tested methods First, we are still seeing a healthy any preconceived stigma about interim that can be very valuable to companies. demand for senior appointments in the or short-term contracting has What we are also finding is that marketplace. As seasoned head-hunters, dissipated. This is because the benefits organisations are already seeing the we find that demand for senior are becoming more obvious for both benefits an interim can quickly bring to executives remains high. You often find professionals and organisations alike: a business. Tried and tested senior that in times of uncertainty, industry executive interim is a genuine and executives are much more than a safe always demands the best in class; a exciting opportunity for both sides of pair of hands; they bring new viewpoints steady ship is a happy ship! the coin. and opportunities. However, following months of The shift in market perceptions is also What we are really interested in is restrictions and, for many businesses, opening the market up. Many businesses redefining the interim offering. An varying degrees of uncertainty, we are are already seeing the long-term executive interim is not just a also witnessing a similar demand for benefits of an interim partner who can transactional process or purely filling in interim professionals at a senior level. bring something new to a business. the gaps in your business’s skill-set. By The business ‘need’ for interim Demand in the interim market is bringing our high standards of executive professionals has actually now risen in increasingly focused on highly search to the interim market we believe line with the demand for permanent experienced operators who have there is great opportunity for both executive positions. We haven’t seen real-life experience of making business businesses and candidates in this this as an emerging trend before, where change happen. This is the crux of what growing marketplace. Ultimately, demand for both permanent and organisations are looking for in an interims bring the fire power to see a temporary senior positions are as strong executive interim. business through to the next stage and as each other. And we don’t think this is Interim executives are good for the expertise to drive it forward in the a short-term ripple effect either; rather, businesses on many levels. They provide short-term with a long-term viewpoint, we are predicting that it will continue to an opportunity for businesses to lay the which under the current global be an emerging trend over the course of foundation of change and bring uncertainty is a perfect match. the next 12 months. something new to the business and For more information on MM Search, Many people are asking, why is the challenge the status quo. It is more often visit us online at interim market growing? We suspect than not the case that future leaders can www.mmsearch.co.uk

WWW.IOD.COM 19 Technical briefing: IT

Tech to the fore in fight against diabetes A new Scotland/USA digital Hinkes, one of the foremost authorities Glasgow-based tech expert Stephen venture, ePrevenir, is set to lead on diabetes in the United States, has Behan was brought on board with a key the global fight against diabetes, developed the methodology and role of applying machine learning to taking patient screening to a inextricably-linked algorithms behind artificial intelligence on patient details the novel/smart technological-based and ultimately transforming the new level, as its inaugural chair, solution. platform into an expert system to Raymond O’Hare, explains to Working closely with him on both correlate that data across the four industry commentator Bill Magee. sides of the Atlantic is Bruce Lynskey, a morbidities. Massachusetts-based specialist in Raymond, a board member elsewhere early-stage enterprises, together with with Stephen, accepted the invitation to Covid-19 is masking another worsening Stephen Behan, senior technologist, and chair this exciting new venture, with universal life-changing illness at a time Eddy Yacoubian, business advisor (both Eddy strengthening the business when resources are understandably Glasgow-based). Chair Raymond, the advisory side of the team. being concentrated on the coronavirus former director of Microsoft Scotland, Raymond says the aim is focused first pandemic. now operates a non-executive portfolio on worst-hit countries including China, Diabetes UK says cases have doubled mainly concentrating on digital sector. India, USA, Pakistan and Brazil. In in the past 20 years, with 1-in-16 people From Massachusetts Bruce says: addition it will target England which, now diabetic. Risk of an early death is “Scotland significantly outperforms the unlike Scotland, has no annual diabetes more than doubled due to the disease. US in care and management of diabetes. examination programme. It’s further complicated by 1-in-2 There is much more going on... that can Data collected through controlled individuals affected left undiagnosed for benefit the US and many other examinations will form the world’s most far too long, before later discovering countries struggling with the condition.” powerful expert system available on they have contracted the chronic illness. Dr Hinkes, author of Keep the Legs You diabetes. It’s costing Britain’s cash-strapped Stand On, told me from his Nashville The launch of ePrevenir coincides NHS £10 billion annually and rising. base: “I’m passionate about significantly with the centenary of the discovery of Diabetes is a major cause of blindness, improving the rates of prevention, early insulin. kidney failure, heart attack and stroke. diagnosis, superior management and Raymond adds: “The venture brings Risk of amputation is 25 times greater reduced levels of amputation.” together a highly unusual and powerful than non-sufferers. He contends earlier escalation for combination of individuals from varied International Diabetes Federation treatment ultimately leads to avoidable backgrounds: a podiatrist surgeon, an says globally, 1-in-5 over age 65 is a hospital treatment and reductions in entrepreneur/academic, an oil industry sufferer, 1.1 million children and adoles- numbers of cases and lost limbs. drilling expert turned IT guru plus two cents live with Type One, and 1-in-6 The story begins two decades ago – as IT sector veterans.” births are affected during pregnancy. is often the case with breakthrough Dr Hinkes has been refining and With all of this in mind a new Scots/ medical solutions – at a dinner in developing his approach to the US digital partnership called ePrevenir Nashville involving Bruce and Mark, prevention of amputations for over 25 has created a ground-breaking digital who had developed a set of algorithms years. “His work has solution with a global reach. to use in a medical practice to culminated in a set of The venture promises enhanced incorporate evidence-based medicine algorithms and best prevention, better control of the disease, permitting a standardised method to practice improved survival rates and significant examine, evaluate and analyse the embedded in the healthcare cash savings. diabetic patient’s lower extremities. ePrevenir solution Raymond O’Hare is chair of the new Bruce encouraged Mark to pursue it. with the potential venture, which is based in Glasgow. It’s Fast forward and Mark had been busy to change the where vital R&D and with it jobs will be producing impressive results on horrific diabetes created, and where it will be headquartered. patients’ health along with what adds statistics,” adds A high-tech prototype is now in an up to significant medical cost savings. Raymond, former advanced stage. It consists of an A standard digital platform has been chair of IoD easy-to-use iPad or equivalent – developed to include, along with foot Scotland... management tool for healthcare pathology, the three other diabetic “forever!” providers and diabetic patients, utilising morbidities – ocular, vascular and renal evidence-based best practice medicine. – enabling healthcare providers to The venture’s co-founder, Dr Mark regularly screen patients. “The venture brings together a highly unusual and powerful combination of individuals from varied backgrounds: a podiatrist surgeon, an entrepreneur/ academic, an oil industry drilling expert turned IT guru plus two IT sector veterans.” Raymond O’Hare 20 WWW.IOD.COM

Technical briefing: Vistra

Simplify and rationalise as we plan for a post-Covid future

Anthony Young, Executive Director, Solicitor at Vistra, examines how entity rationalisation can help your business on the road to recovery and growth

The pandemic has changed the global urgency. Ensuring there is liquidity for workforce restructuring. economy as we know it. All businesses funding future operations has become Remote working has, of course, — whether survivors or thrivers — are increasingly important. Businesses need increased dramatically during the struggling to determine what will matter to pay close attention to cash collection, pandemic. Employers should evaluate most to their businesses when we projection and protection. They also related opportunities, such as providing emerge from the pandemic. need to focus on identifying and more flexible working arrangements, Essentially, an organisation will move mitigating financial risk factors, reducing expensive property and from acting to withstand Covid-19 including controlling cost escalations drawing on a larger talent pool. challenges to recovering from these and negotiating with customers, There are risks involved in a remote setbacks, to thriving in a new global suppliers, contractors and partners. working model, such as those related to economic reality after discovering what Ensuring supply chains are resilient employee engagement and productivity. matters most to the success of their and operating efficiently is essential. If Business leaders must carefully consider business. The journey requires a series not already in place, businesses should these risks and develop sound policies of business changes, including consider creating back-up plans to before implementing remote working operational and strategic changes. ensure business needs are fulfilled in the permanently. For many, especially multinationals, event of local lockdowns. Work policies and practices should this will entail simplifying, rationalising Evaluating and planning for workforce not only be based on widespread best and reorganising, a process that can changes should be in the forefront of practices and local labour laws; they take months. business leaders’ thinking. The sudden should also be suited to the particular impact of lockdowns and significant business, as they will have broad Taking steps now to protect your revenue losses have proved a large operational impacts. business burden for many businesses, forcing Businesses must also be properly We all know the saying “cash is king,” financial and HR directors to make structured to support a mobile but it now has a renewed sense of headcount changes and consider workforce. In some cases, this may

Increasingly, businesses are

exploring various‘‘ lines of capital and business development, such as carve-out acquisitions‘‘ or joint ventures, start-ups, fundraisings and investments.

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Despite ongoing turmoil, now is

the time for senior‘‘ executives to take a step back and look at the bigger picture. Many‘‘ will find opportunities amid the changing markets...

entail setting up a new entity to mitigate tax risks and sponsor work permits. This in turn may involve a host of employer obligations, such as those related to expatriate payrolls, HR policies and tax obligations. Businesses that aren’t suited to full investing in human capital and talent employment terms and conditions. remote working or a hybrid model must management, even during periods of n Moving staff to the most promising carefully manage how their employees great uncertainty. business areas as part of a more major return to work, or they’ll risk damaging restructuring exercise. their reputation as a good and Simplifying and rationalising your n Moving staff to other countries to conscientious employer. They should, business facilitate international expansion and for example, create sound, equitable Businesses that are best positioned to align staff with updated supply chains. policies related to social distancing and thrive after the pandemic will have n Ensuring talent is properly workplace hygiene that account for any identified steps to simplify and rewarded, safeguarded and incentivised local regulations. rationalise their corporate groups. The in each country of operation, based on following is a partial list of related local labour laws and practices. Looking at the bigger picture considerations. Despite ongoing turmoil, now is the Every business’ situation is unique, so time for senior executives to take a step Simplifying group structures there is no such thing as a blanket or back and look at the bigger picture. n Conducting business strike-offs and one- size-fits-all approach to Many will find opportunities amid the liquidations. rationalisation. changing markets. n Generating operating-cost savings, A successful rationalisation involves Increasingly, businesses are exploring improving efficiencies and lowering looking at the big picture as well as various lines of capital and business compliance risks by consolidating weighing all elements of a company. development, such as carve-out service providers and other vendors. Simplifying a business is not easy, nor acquisitions or joint ventures, start-ups, n Lowering risk by removing uncertain is a corporate restructuring necessarily fundraisings and investments. Many areas of the business, such as cross- essential in response to the pandemic. new products, services, service-delivery border governance. That said, the pandemic should act as a models and markets are emerging trigger for businesses to evaluate their during the pandemic, and collaborations Reviewing and managing corporate model to ensure it is still fit for purpose may be the best way to take advantage of structures given new realities. Those realities will new opportunities without taking on a n Changing the corporate structure as continue to evolve and their effects on high level of risk. necessary to facilitate cost-savings and businesses will be felt for years. At the same time, businesses should improved operational efficiencies. Businesses will therefore need to start engaging with customers to n Restructuring through closing continue to evaluate their own understand trends and behavioural non-performing, no-prospect or hived structures and operational practices and changes that may become permanent off loss-making businesses. adapt accordingly. This may involve post-pandemic. They should also n Capitalising on opportunities to relatively small and continuous recognise and prepare to take advantage increase the use of technology, transformation or more significant of technological advances hastened by automation, analytics and e-commerce. restructuring or rationalisation. current events. This should in turn help n Preparing for international with identifying ways to improve business expansion — in some cases through joint HOW VISTRA CAN HELP performance and allocate resources to ventures — when opportunities emerge. Our specialists have the expertise to where they will perform best. n Restructuring existing facilities and assist you with business rationalisation Additionally, businesses will have to raising new equity to allow for better projects. If you have any questions start adapting to new environmental, intra-group funding, financing and cash about the process, please contact social and governance (ESG) norms, movement. [email protected]. including changing norms in the physical, digital, emotional and financial Restructuring workforces spaces. n Creating savings through headcount Finally, it is crucial to continue reduction, redundancies and adjusted

WWW.IOD.COM 23 Conference host Conference Aidan O’Carroll calls for youth focus in recovery

embers and delegates had a Whether it was urging directors to Government’s recovery plan, with a clear message for continue their own learning journeys, a consensus growing that life sciences, Government and wider need for digital skills to be given a new artificial intelligence, green and low society at this year’s IoD priority, or calls for schools and colleges carbon technology, hospitality and MScotland Conference: whatever the to embrace vocational training as an tourism would be the sectors that acted consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic, alternative to pushing students down the as drivers of the economy of the future. we cannot allow our youngest tertiary academic route, each speaker Covid has tested leadership almost to generations to pay the highest price. acknowledged that education was the destruction over the past 12 months, and Held remotely on a digital platform as principal vehicle through which it was clear that “authentic and a result of coronavirus restrictions, the Scotland could ‘build back better.’ transparent leaders” had held their Conference, held over two days from An education-led recovery would see organisations together best, as had those November 5-6, saw speakers drawn from schools and colleges improve their links who could articulate a clear business across the business sectors offer their with business to help students leave with purpose and strategy to their teams. thoughts on the over-arching theme of work-ready skills, while the importance 2020 had also highlighted the Collaborating for Scotland’s Growth. of nano and lifelong learning was importance of building in resilience, but What emerged was a need to champion highlighted, too. businesses must be careful not to dwell greater resilience, sustainability, Identifying the sectors where Scotland on this crisis: “lift your eyes and look inclusivity and innovation – but the issue could lead the world was a challenge ahead, five-10 years hence,” as Kate of education dominated throughout, taken up by Kate Forbes, Cabinet Forbes urged. It was important to see the with speakers and contributing delegates Secretary for Finance. The digital and landscape Scotland would be operating continually returning to the subject. technology sectors were the focus of the in the next decade.

Business has almost‘‘ taken the attitude that, ‘we pay our tax, we generate wealth, now leave us alone’. That attitude won’t wash any

more. Business needs

to be deeper embedded into the society in which‘‘ it functions. Dr Roger Barker

24 WWW.IOD.COM For more information on our Conference sponsors, click on the button below the logo

We need to prioritise our

youth: we‘‘ cannot have a situation where the young generation pays the‘‘ highest price for the pandemic... Benny Higgins

This was a theme echoed by Robin Benny Higgins Watson cbe, who pointed out the Chair, Scottish Government Advisory importance of strategy planning to Group on Economic Recovery ensure your business is future fit and to ask yourself the ‘usefulness’ question: enny Higgins offered some bold Looking beyond the current crisis “how useful does society find your steps to kickstart a post-Covid Benny was concerned about business – and how useful will it be Beconomic recovery – as well as Scotland’s low productivity: “When deemed to be in five years’ time?” some thought-provoking quotes on you have full employment but low Throughout the two days the life in a global pandemic. growth, then it’s down to productivity.” challenges facing Scotland were On leadership in the midst of the With an economy in transition to the acknowledged and discussed. Low Covid-19 storm, he was reminded of ‘fourth industrial revolution’, he said, productivity was historically linked to an old adage from US Army General that made many in the workplace education – and along with poor digital Norman Schwarzkopf, who said that vulnerable. infrastructure, needed improvement. leadership was all about strategy and He saw three dominant themes But overall there was a determination character – but if you have to dispense emerging in the post-Covid that Scotland should not “waste this with one, “drop the strategy.” landscape: inequality, education and crisis” but would build back better, with Benny said the pandemic had employment. Covid had highlighted a focus on sustainability, inclusivity and exposed true leadership: authoritarians inequalities in society and had fairness embedded throughout the had perished, with those who were hammered the poorest hardest; the Scotland of the future. authentic and transparent bringing only way to prevent this situation As Jonathan Geldart, the IoD Director- their people with them through the getting worse was to focus on an General pointed out, Scotland had all the storm. “Character is so important for education-led recovery that prepared potential for a rosy future: it’s “early all leaders,” he told IoD Scotland young people for the jobs of the investments in renewable energy, low chair Aidan O’Carroll in a set-piece future. “We need to prioritise our carbon projects, digital businesses and a interview to open Conference. “When youth; we cannot have a situation reputation for world-class education, things are going okay, you fall back on where the young generation pays the particularly at university level, meant it your experience and knowledge. But highest price for the pandemic.” was perfectly placed to take advantage of as soon as a crisis lands, you’ve Learning wasn’t just for the young, the growth sectors of the future.” nothing to fall back on except your however; opportunities for lifelong character. It’s time like these that the and nano learning should be grasped true leaders are revealed.” by all – even directors and senior He suggested that a touch of executives, he suggested. humility always helped: “Don’t think The sectors where he saw strongest you can do this on your own; you growth were those where Scotland

need others around you to help get already has an advantage, Benny said. The pace of change has stepped your organisation through this.” “The focus has to be on life sciences,

up a gear... it’s far more hectic... The best leaders were also education, green and low carbon ‘‘ tremendous listeners. He cited former energy, hospitality and tourism,” and strategy planning that used to be ‘‘ Tesco CEO Sir Terry Leahy as an the way to ensure maximum return on good for five years is barely good example of someone “who listened; this was to put all our strength behind for a year now he said you get your answer at the end the education-led recovery he’d of a conversation, not at the start.” called for previously. Robin Watson cbe Click here to watch Benny’s full presentation and Q&A with Aidan O’Carroll

WWW.IOD.COM 25 Kate Forbes msp Cabinet Secretary for Finance

We need to lift our eyes ate Forbes MSP, Cabinet from the‘‘ current crisis Secretary for Finance, said the

Scottish Government would and look 5-10 years build a “fairer, greener Scotland” hence to what the K ‘‘ as it looked to lead the economic business landscape recovery, post-Covid-19. Its new strategic framework offered a will be like. route map to recovery, one in which the Kate Forbes MSP response to the economic health of the country needed to be as transparent as the one for the physical health. At the heart of the recovery would be digital and tech, with an initial goal of building the infrastructure on which Scotland could build the businesses of digital capacity. “Too often businesses right path: she appealed to IT specialists tomorrow. say, ‘we can’t develop digital because the to look at creating links with schools and But equally crucial was reducing network isn’t there’ when in fact, it is colleges to work with students on digital digital poverty and ensuring everyone there and it isn’t being used to capacity.” issues. had access to both the hardware, “Let’s maximise the potential that’s She also called on business leaders to software and skills the modern world out there.” start looking to the future and avoid demanded. That potential included human immersing themselves too much in the Business had a role to play. She capital, too: “We have 13,000 tech current crisis. “We need to lift our eyes accepted that the digital infrastructure vacancies at the moment,” she pointed from the current crisis and look 5-10 was lacking in some areas – pointing out out. “There’s so much scope for growth if years hence to what the business that as the MSP for Skye, which has the we can start training people to fill these landscape will be like.” worst digital coverage in Scotland, she vacancies.” She urged all businesses to get behind was at the brunt of it more than most – One issue was a shortage of computer the green and low carbon economy, but business had to invest in its own science teachers to set students on the which will drive growth across Scotland.

Click here to watch Kate Forbes’ full presentation and Q&A with Aidan O’Carroll

of cars, saving you time and money Conference when you make your next purchase. workshops With a wave of new electric and hyrbid vehicles coming on line, it is Conference included four excellent imperative that directors think carefully workshops, allowing delegates to get about the options available for their to grips with key topics impacting on support worker for when they find next purchase, and not to deny their organisations. themselves struggling to access data or themselves the widest choice available complete tasks. by focusing on one manufacturer. Pike SALESFORCE Crucially, Work.com also puts + Bambridge draws its vehicles from a Faced with the challenges of Covid-19 employee wellbeing at the centre of its suite of 20 manufacturers and is ideally and the digital transformation already focus. placed to help make the right choice, taking place in the world’s offices, based on your needs, usage and tax Salesforce had set about creating a new PIKE + BAMBRIDGE position. In particular, directors must place – or workspace – for their teams at The traditional model on which car be aware of the considerable tax Work.com [https://www.salesforce.com/ procurement has been based for benefits available by securing the right uk/work/?d=customer-promo2] . decades is changing fast, and business model. This is designed around modern owners are in a great place to maximise The workshop also looked at the workers’ needs, providing support, the advantages this new landscape will exciting possibilities that are opening information and work schedules in one bring, said car procurement specialists up around autonomous vehicles, with a easy-to-access place. It can guide Pike + Bambridge. fascinating vision of a car that, after it employees through day-to-day The company’s goal is to help its drives you to the office, then sets off to challenges, and acts as their own office clients understand the changing world work for you as an Uber vehicle. Click here to watch Salesforce’s workshop Click here to watch Pike + Bambridge’s workshop

26 WWW.IOD.COM The Salesforce effect: How it is planning for Covid-19 recovery. More on pg 28

‘‘

Aidan O’Carroll Dr Roger Barker Jonathan Geldart Dr Gillian Murray Session host Director of Policy and Director-General, Deputy Principal, Corporate Governance, Institute of Directors Enterprise and Business, Institute of Directors Heriot-Watt University he Friday morning panel session clear business purpose connected to agile enough to handle a crisis. The saw three high-profile figures strategy to complement both your goals current situation had proved how offer a UK-wide perspective on and your place in the wider society. In valuable it was to have “leaders Tfinance, the economy and the past “business has almost taken the everywhere… develop a culture where Scotland’s future, attitude that, we pay our tax, we generate you’re not just leading from the top but Dr Roger Barker, Jonathan Geldart and wealth, now leave us alone. That attitude leading from the middle.” Dr Gillian Murray agreed that the key to won’t wash any more. Business needs to He agreed with Dr Barker’s comments a prosperous future was to create be deeper embedded into the society in on a sense of purpose, adding that the effective collaboration based around which it functions.” pandemic showed the value of “clear sustainability, inclusivity and Any future recovery had to be not just communication that delivers the messages.” innovation. built back better, but ethically. It was Directors must always be agile, “ready Dr Murray said that Scotland’s important to find your ‘North Star’ to to respond to new challenges – and be education, particularly at tertiary level, guide your team, said Dr Barker: prepared to take responsibility for their was still revered around the world, and “Purpose is a great motivator: knowing actions.” agreed with the previous day’s what the culture is, what the route is, is Looking forward, the emphasis again comments about any post-Covid record important; it binds stakeholders was on the AI, digital and green sectors, being education-driven. She too saw a together. Make your reason for being with Jonathan Geldart pointing out how growth in lifelong learning, particularly applicable to everything you do.” he saw Scotland as being “uniquely around tech skills, but the pandemic had Jonathan Geldart added that the placed by its earlier investments in wind highlighted the continuing need for pandemic and subsequent restrictions and hydro energy to lead the world on social soft skills, too. had highlighted the importance of creating a sustainable economy of the Dr Barker said there is a need for a building a resilient business that was future.”

Click here to watch the full panel session with Aidan O’Carroll

Scotland is uniquely placed by Our education remains Purpose is a great

its early investments‘‘ in wind and revered‘‘ around the motivator...‘‘ find your hydro energy to lead the world world... but we need a ‘North Star’ to guide ‘‘ ‘‘ on creating a sustainable‘‘ economy new focus on lifelong your team and bind of the future. and technical skills stakeholders together Jonathan Geldart Dr Gillian Murray Dr Roger Barker

WWW.IOD.COM 27 Kieron Achara mbe Abbi Aitken- John Barclay Malcolm Cannon Olympian and former Drummond former Scotland Session host GB Basketball and Scottish International Rugby International Scotland International Cricketer Captain

hree Scottish international people need to see a touch of Businesses often promote a culture – teams added a world-class vulnerability in others, to see their flaws, something similar to sporting groups. touch to Conference, as they in order to relate to them and be But too often John Barclay had found Tdiscussed with IoD Scotland prepared to approach them. the culture was simply “pre-season National Director Malcolm Cannon Kieron Achara said he had always words on a board that the team failed to what lessons business could learn from needed a ‘Why’ in his life – a purpose for live up to.” By all means create a culture sport – and vica versa. everything he did, which took or code for your workplace, “but make Kieron Achara mbe, Abbi Aitken- conference back to earlier comments sure it is lived by the team.” Drummond and John Barclay offered about providing purpose to your As for team building, Abbie said that views on everything from handling the business activities. He still finds time to diversity had been a key contributor to isolation of lockdown to motivating pause and reflect on everything he does success for the Scotland cricket team: yourself to climb to the next level, in an each day. “We championed our differences from entertaining session that highlighted the On director CPD, he pointed out that the start; ironically, what set us apart at many crossovers between sporting it was something top-level sport first brought us together once we found excellence and business success. demanded through training every day – a common purpose to work to.” They also discussed ways to increase “every day is a CPD day for all of us.” Good leadership is critical – but so is resilience – though as John Barclay Abbi Aitken-Drummond, looking at followership, said John; “You need pointed out, “the only true way to build the impact lockdown isolation had people to follow you” – though always resilience is to put yourself in wrought on some people, said that for remembering, Kieron added, “that no uncomfortable places, and few people her, “touring was always fun but could one is bigger than the team: we win as a are prepared to do that.” still create periods of loneliness despite team, we lose as a team.” He did suggest that appearing to be the team environment.” She had To improve “no matter who you are, too resilient could hamper leadership: discovered that taking herself away ask for constructive feedback. It’s what from the group and reconnecting with athletes do every day. Click here to watch the full panel herself had been crucial to maintain “Why not make feedback part of your session with Malcolm Cannon strong mental health. life in business?”

Vivek Ganotra 2020 had brought about a re-evaluation of Chief Customer Officer, Salesforce Salesforce products, with the development of the Work.com platform [https://www.salesforce.com/ onference welcomed headline sponsor uk/work/?d=customer-promo2] bringing its Salesforce to the digital platform, with clients closer together through a digital CVivek Ganotra explaining how his company interactive workspace. was responding to the challenges of 2020. What remained consistent, however, were The need to upskill and reskill to fill gaps in the Salesforce’s core values, of Trust, Customer digital workforce was paramount. Globally, Success, Innovation and Equality. Salesforce estimated that there were a Salesforce had not ‘wasted this crisis’ by sitting unbelievable 756,000 unfilled digital jobs still, a philosophy other directors would be wise worldwide, and his company continued to offer to follow. It was crucial to stay ahead of the training through its Trailhead platform, links to digital curve by reskilling yourself and your staff: digital skills initiatives and interaction with “You need a clear digital plan, and then to invest Click here to watch schools and colleges. and build out your ecosystem,” Vivak stressed. Vivek Ganotra 28 WWW.IOD.COM

Click here to watch “I think ‘usefulness’ is a key the full session concept: ask‘‘ yourself, what use

does society place on your

products or services. And then ask, will that usefulness remain in five years time? What‘‘ impact will the digital landscape have on me? Robin Watson cbe

Robin Watson cbe at hand to meet the challenge.” been extraordinary. I would never have That strong scenario planning and believed we could switch to home CEO, Wood plc analysis “always looks at negative and working so efficiently. But be wary of positive trends; it allows us to book-end thinking a one-solution-fits-all policy is our strategy planning with clear worst right. Watch your staff. Make sure their uthenticity – resilience – agility case and best case scenarios.” mental wellbeing is being maintained. are the watchwords of modern For Robin, at the core of every Not everyone is suited to working in business leaders, said Robin organisation’s strategic overview should isolation.” AWatson cbe, CEO of be a simple question: how useful are we? In particular he had spotted a clear international built environment and “I think ‘usefulness’ is a key concept: ask age divide at Wood: “Our younger energy group Wood. yourself, what use does society place on workers feel happier in the office; it’s the Interviewed by IoD Scotland National your products or services? And then ask, social aspect they miss when they’re at Director Malcolm Cannon, he explained will that usefulness remain in five years home. With older workers, I wonder if how Wood had changed its business time? What impact will the digital we’ll ever get them back in an office profile, moving away from a landscape have on me? That one again!” dependence on upstream oil and gas question gives you a remarkable Another lesson he had learned had into other areas. The purchase of Amec snapshot of your place and your future.” been centred around crisis Foster Wheeler in 2017 had been a key Wood – and Robin – had learned management. “We went into crisis component of this shift, and he was valuable lessons during the pandemic. mode quickly but possibly stayed in too proud that where the company’s focus “We all know change is happening but long. The danger is you become had been 95 per cent on upstream oil the pace has stepped up a gear since reactionary, responding to events rather and gas, “today it is only around a third.” Covid-19 came into our lives. It’s more than creating a strategy for the business The Covid-19 pandemic had hectic; strategy planning that used to to follow. It was important that we presented particular challenges to a last five years now barely makes it stepped back from Covid-19 and looked global business. “We transferred as through 12 months.” It was important again at our core business and many people as possible to home businesses used the current crisis as a purposes, and made adjustments that working. Our constant scenario catalyst for change kept us sharp.” planning allowed us to adjust our focus He had picked up some individual He left conference with a question: quickly and despite the pandemic lessons from the past nine months. “The what are you doing to keep your coming out of the blue, we had the tools way the workforce has responded has organisation ‘future fit’? Key points and takeaways

Leadership is lonely - reach out to others - and collaborate ... Acquire new skills ... Build sustainable ‘‘businesses ... Have a North Star; develop a purpose that ‘‘ resonates with your team ... The post-Covid landscape has to be education-led... Key takeaways... from Malcolm Cannon

30 WWW.IOD.COM

When Burger King is encouraging everyone to eat at ‘‘ McDonalds, KFC and Greggs...‘‘‘‘ we’ve reached a whole new level of business collaboration Nicki Sturzaker

Dr Iain MacRitchie MCR Pathways

Nicki Sturzaker Drylaw House

onference’s final session saw Dr Iain MacRitchie, founder and Chair, MCR Pathways; and CNicki Sturzaker, co-founder, Drylaw House, offer short, sharp reflections on the business landscape as they saw it. missing out on their shot at the property for hire’ had been completed Dr MacRitchie said he thought workplace, helping build their despite the objections of experts who Conference opener Benny Higgins’ confidence and develop new skills. said it would not succeed. It reminded comments on an education-led recovery Ultimately, we’re giving you a chance to her of the importance of trusting her were inspiring, but he’d add ‘relationships’ put back into society by helping others.” gut. to the foundations of the recovery, so Some of the sessions can be tough at “Go with your instincts: don’t be that all in the community could benefit. times but as one mentor put it, “I always afraid of challenging the experts.” MCR Pathways works with young come out of a session with my mentee The pandemic had shown her the people on the edges of society in order smiling.” resilience to be found in the business that their talents aren’t wasted, and he Dr MacRitchie reminded conference community, but also how far businesses appealed to delegates to use their that “every child has potential. Young would go in collaboration for the good talents and contacts to build people often just need someone to of all: “When Burger King is encouraging relationships with young people communicate with, to put a little bit of everyone to eat at McDonalds, KFC and through the charity, working alongside ordinary back into their lives; it’s when I Greggs, etc, then we’re in a new world of them in focused volunteering sessions. see talent going to waste that I challenge collaborating,” she pointed out, and “Our mentors tell us it is the best thing it.” such business altruism had to be a they’ve ever done. They act as trainers Nicki Sturzaker’s brave development blueprint for the future economic and guides to young people in danger of of Drylaw House into an ‘exclusive success of Scotland.

Click here to watch the full session, chaired by Malcolm Cannon

Conference while not having a Net Zero target could lose you business from clients, having workshops plans in place to cut carbon emissions could win you new business, too. Zero Waste Scotland’s goal is to promote Zero Waste Scotland’s number one the use of products and resources organisation within Scotland, but the suggestion was for all businesses to think responsibly and efficiently, as part of carbon footprint of products you buy in carefully about air travel and vehicle use. Scotland’s commitment to reducing from overseas, too. Was it ever right that, at any one time carbon emissions and waste. Check your supply chain and look for before the pandemic, there were over It was important that all businesses ‘carbon hotspots’ – particularly on one million people flying – or that took a holistic approach to reducing products purchased overseas. Telling employees were financially incentivised their carbon footprint. Suggested steps suppliers you were going ‘carbon free’ to drive their own inefficient cars? included the creation of a Net Zero plan was a great way of driving more Click here to watch Zero Waste – but it was important that this looked responsible purchasing. It was also a Scotland’s workshop not just at emissions created by your good way to claim greater market share:

• The SCOTTISH BUSINESS RESILIENCE CENTRE’S (SBRC) attack, how to put up effective barriers – and what to do if acclaimed ‘Exercise in a Box’ has been credited with helping you fall prey to a hack. hundreds of businesses avoid damaging cyber attacks and The most important advice if you do fall foul of a cyber attack embedding deep knowledge of the threats posed by criminals is to respond quickly, never pay a ransomware request and hacking organisations’ websites and digital workspaces. ask SBRC’s pool of cyber experts for help. The exercise, run by SBRC’s experienced IT professionals, Find out more at www.sbrcentre.co.uk walks employees through the common mistakes people Click here to watch the Scottish Business make that leaves their organisation vulnerable to a cyber Resilience Centre’s workshop

WWW.IOD.COM 31 Members

IoD Scotland Helping you through the coronavirus crisis

Did you know as a member* you get...

Free business advice, 25 enquiries to the Business Four sessions with our 25 calls to our legal helpline research and information Information Service business advisers and 25 calls to our tax helpline Find out more at www.iod.com/services/information-and-advice Business Information Directors’ Advice

As an IoD member, you have access to top professional No matter how well connected you are, sometimes you need researchers through the IoD Business Information service. independent and confidential business advice from a They can provide you with valuable information on topics specialist. ranging from market forecasts and industry trends to trading The Directors’ Advisory Service provides IoD members with abroad and employee salaries. just that, free of charge. Our expert advice covers issues from raising finance to board appointments and shareholder Key details disputes. 1. Free and exclusive service to you as an IoD member 2. Accessible from all over the world by email or phone Key details 3. Up to 25 enquiries* per calendar year with 30 minutes of 1. Exclusive to IoD members research time on each occasion 2. Free, independent & confidential advice on a vast range of 4. Bespoke answers within 24 hours or soon thereafter during issues exceptionally busy periods 3. Advice is given by appointment either in a face-to-face *According to your membership package consultation at 116 Pall Mall or over the telephone, depending * Full Members and Associates have full access to on adviser availability our digital business library and guides as well as 4. Up to four appointments per calendar year, 30-45 minutes our archive of research and reports. each.

Covid-19: Support for you and your business

Government Support Information & Advice The coronavirus pandemic has you’d like to contribute or sign up to our Directors & Governance presented unparalleled challenges. member support directory, email the We want to provide you with the team at [email protected]. Remote Wellbeing connections, development, and We are in direct contact with Learning & Development influence not just to recover, but to Government, pressing for the right Community Content build back better. In this hub we aim to measures to see UK directors and the provide the resources you need to do so. economy through the months ahead. All available at The IoD’s greatest resource is its Sign up to Policy Voice or email us at www.iod.com international community of members – if [email protected].

32 WWW.IOD.COM Membership discounts The IoD has a host of carefully chosen, specially negotiated discounts on key services for IoD members Professional Indemnity Individual Directors Liability Insurance Insurance supplied by Hiscox u Suitable for purchase by individuals, u Save five per cent on Hiscox’s providing a final layer of protection standard rates (subject to and necessary if your company is underwriting criteria) unable to fund a defence or if the u Specialist knowledge – Hiscox offers action is brought by the employer Edinburgh hub closed industry-specific policies to suit the itself. but Pall Mall is open risks you face u Up to 35 per cent discount u Flexible policies – Select from a (premiums start from just £33 per to members range of cover levels to get the month for £1m of cover, protecting protection you need you and only you) IoD Scotland’s Charlotte Square facility in u 0 per cent interest on Direct Debits u Policy suitable for directorships of Edinburgh remains closed; for details of u No administration fees – Amend private limited companies, some the facilities available once they re-open, your policy as your needs change public limited companies, LLPs and contact [email protected]. u Get a quote in minutes – Online or most not-for-profit organisations However, please note that the IoD’s by phone u All costs are tax deductible, or your Members’ facility in Pall Mall re-opens on organisation can pay the premium December 3 once the lockdown in England Corporate Directors Liability on your behalf without personal tax is lifted. Our colleagues in London look liability forward to welcoming you soon. Insurance Pall Mall can currently host corporate u Suitable for purchase by companies, meetings or events for up to 30 people in LLPs, most forms of charities and Cyber and Data Risks Insurance the Business Centre, training academy, or trusts, to protect all directors and one of the larger event spaces. certain qualifying senior employees u Save five per cent on Hiscox’s standard rates (subject to All rooms are large enough for social on a blanket basis. distancing, food and drinks can be u Acts as a first line of defence and underwriting criteria) u Specialist expertise – Hiscox have ordered via QR codes from the room, can also cover subsidiary companies attendees will be registered for track and and their directors. been providing cyber and data insurance for 14 years, so they trace, and all rooms will be rigorously u Five per cent discount (most cleaned between each meeting. policies, with £1m of cover cost from understand the changing risks that businesses face and have evolved just £900 per annum) The Members’ lounge is available for solo u Shareholder/stakeholder actions their product to meet them u A trusted partner: Financial working only on the small tables, two covered people on the larger tables. Tables u Employee litigation covered compensation isn’t all that’s needed in the event of a claim. Hiscox will available for am / pm booking and must u Supplier/customer actions covered be booked in advance u Regulatory investigations (HMRC, pay out when you suffer a loss, but will also provide access to a team of HSE, OFT etc.) Members requiring a meeting can book u Immediate cover available experts who will work with you to minimise your loss and the possible Business Centre rooms. We are delighted to be able to offer damage to your business u Access to privacy lawyers and More details and a full Covid risk exclusive members-only discounts assessment can be found at www.iod.com at a number of leading hotels across technical specialists Scotland. For a full list, contact [email protected].

ScotRail on new travel guidelines

ScotRail has announced its latest customer reservations as best as it can, responses to Government advice on the company has temporarily suspended train travel. As per official guidance, the the IoD membership benefit of free First customers should follow our fives rules use of facemasks is now mandatory on all Class upgrade at this time. for safer travel: trains, and physical distancing will be in We appreciate the co-operation of IoD • Don’t travel if you are unwell place. members on this. • Don’t travel at peak times This has reduced capacity significantly: We’re continuing to remind customers • If you think it is unsafe to board a on average, capacity is around 14 per cent that the train should only be used for train, don’t do it of what it would normally be across all essential journeys and that if they do have • Wear a face mask and keep a safe our train fleets. Therefore, to support to travel, distance physical distancing and manage • Finally, please be patient.

WWW.IOD.COM 33 Events Diary

All IoD Scotland events, and national events, are now being run online. We hope to return to face-to-face meetings in 2021. All the events listed on these pages are free of charge to both members and non-members

The Business in the Parliament Conference 2020 What has the pandemic taught us about leadership and inclusion? Date: December 2 Time: 11am-12.30pm Location: Online As part of the 2020 Business in the Parliament Conference, IoD Scotland and its partners Women’s Enterprise Scotland are hosting a workshop on What has the pandemic taught us about Leadership & Inclusion? Guest speakers will be Andy Lothian (pictured right), CEO Insights Group and Caroline McKenna, CEO/Founder at Social Good Connect. We hope you can join us for this inspiring and engaging session. Coronavirus is causing an unprecedented level of disruption and asking questions of us like never before. If we can pause, and have the presence of mind to ask a single question back – ‘If coronavirus is a teacher, what is it teaching us?’ – how do we create the environment to emerge from this crisis stronger than ever solutions to being truly collaborative CEO/Founder at Social Good Connect, before? In every adversity there is an and inclusive connecting our public, Caroline McKenna (pictured below), on opportunity to learn and grow. private and third sectors for the benefit how we can build on the goodwill Self-aware people are your of our people, businesses, and local already seen during the pandemic to organisation’s competitive advantage, communities. create a world where people care and because self- awareness is the During this 90-minute are inspired to make a positive foundation upon which all else is built. workshop Insights Group social impact. Leadership’s response to a crisis is CEO Andy Lothian will draw Caroline will explore how paramount. Great leaders understand on his 30 years’ experience purposeful leaders embed a that different people have different in people development, to giving culture in order to responses and resilience levels and will explore how self- benefit business, people respond in a constructive way and awareness is the and communities and how engage others through the lens of foundation upon which all we can make these changes self-understanding. Do we understand else is build. sustainable long after the why others respond the way they Andy will examine pandemic has passed. do, and accept this, as a truly the importance of This workshop is open to all inclusive leader? The BIPC will purpose and values in business leaders across Scotland and We will explore how we be holding two keeping us anchored our aim is to make it a truly inspiring and can all take personal further workshops - Clean during periods of engaging session. responsibility to Growth on the 1 December disruption. He will respond in a positive, 11am - 12pm and Standing on share how our constructive and the Shoulders of Giants on the response to this crisis, Event manager: Ms Patricia Huth effective way to work 3 December at 11am - 12.30pm. guided by self- Phone: 01315575488 towards future Further details and to book understanding, will Email: [email protected] thinking to enhance https://www. define us as leaders and our personal leadership businessintheparliament. individuals, and help us Book online at skills, support our people scot build the businesses of https://www.iod.com/events- and our communities. tomorrow – today. community/events/event-details/ We will also discuss We will also be joined by eventdateid/27928

34 WWW.IOD.COM IoD Online: Opportunities in Nigeria with Governor Sanwo-Olu of Lagos Date: January 18, 2021 Time: 12 noon-2pm Location: Online Nigeria is a regional powerhouse in West Africa and one of the world’s biggest emerging markets, with a population of more than 200 million people. The country is well known for its abundant natural resources, but Nigeria’s leaders want to become less reliant on oil. They are putting policies in place that will release Insight webinar: Tools for online potential, foster innovation and diversify the economy. meetings and workshops Nigeria’s technology sector is Date: December 9 already growing fast. In September, Time: 1pm-2pm It’s time to share some of the tools and Facebook announced plans for a Location: Online techniques for facilitating high impact new office in Lagos to support the meetings and workshops. This session Sub-Saharan region – its first office Insight Events – run by members, for will give you an insight into tools and on the continent with a team of members – are designed to enable you to techniques to deliver high quality online engineers. explore a key topic, grow your network meetings, workshops and presentations. In this webinar, Lagos State and gain practical advice from experts This session will be ran by Roseanna Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo- within the Advance community. Farish, Advance member and Strategy Olu will explore investment This latest one asks, How can we Facilitator at Alembic Strategy. opportunities for UK companies in tackle ‘Zoom fatigue’? Nigeria and Lagos State. What different skills do we need in an Event manager: Miss Anna Calderbank Discover which sectors are ripe online meeting environment compared Phone: 020 7766 8866 for growth and hear about the to face to face? Email: [email protected] opportunities for UK companies to tap into Nigeria’s potential. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu Scottish Government public Until his election as the 15th appointments: An introduction Governor of Lagos State on the platform of the All Date: January 25, 2021 be the opportunity to hear from a Progressives Time: 10.30am - 11.30am current board member and ask Congress (APC) Location: Online questions. in the 2019 Ever wondered what being on the board It will be led by Helen Miller, head of elections, of a Scottish public body involves? This improvement and outreach for the Public Babajide session provides the opportunity to Appointments Team. Before joining the Olusola Sanwo- learn more about what is involved, the Scottish Government in January 2019 she Olu was the different roles available, how to apply, worked for the Equality and Human Managing Director/ what it means to be a public body board Rights Commission where she was a CEO of Lagos State Development member and the opportunity to ask senior associate leading on a variety of Property Corporation (LSDPC). He questions. research projects on themes such as was also a three-time Learn what being on a sexual harassment, housing for Commissioner in Lagos State, public body board disabled people and the having served in the Ministries of involves, the benefits of gender pay gap. Economic Planning & Budget, being on a public body Now more than ever, IoD Helen is a lay Commerce & Industry and the board, the Scotland is committed to member of the Ministry of Establishments, appointments providing access to high level Additional Support Training & Pensions. process, the range of events and speakers so where we Needs Tribunal. boards and types of can, our events will remain free for With thanks to the event sponsor, vacancies available. Members to attend. To secure your Event manager: Rate Your Leader It will also signpost place, we instead ask that you may Ms Patricia Huth help and support consider making a donation to Phone: 01315575488 Event manager: Ms Helena Drake available and how to our Charity Partner, Epilepsy Email: Patricia.Huth@ Phone: 01132430152 apply. There will also Scotland here. Thank you. iod.com Email: [email protected]

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Young Directors Digitising your AP process webinar Date: December 3 to help you scale Time: 4pm-5pm Location: Online Date: January 27 2021 Sponsors Time: 12noon-1pm SAP® Concur® is the world’s leading Join us for the first YDF webinar. Location: IoD Online Event brand for integrated travel, expense, and The YDF, led by young directors, invoice management solutions, driven by offers opportunities for peer-to- As you scale, your finance processes need a relentless pursuit to simplify and peer learning from like-minded to scale with you. automate these everyday processes. people all at different stages of In this webinar with SAP Concur, we The highly-rated SAP Concur mobile their career development, who can will discuss how you can automate your app guides employees through business share best practice and experiences finance process to remove process trips, charges are directly populated into on the critical business issues. constraints, free up teams to tackle new expense reports, and invoice approvals On this webinar we will hear opportunities, and control costs to are automated. from Ben Barker, founder of support your business objectives. By integrating near real-time data and Artemis Brew Ltd on how he using AI to analyze transactions, pivoted his business throughout Key areas covered: businesses can see what they’re spending lockdown, including: • Why scalable finance solutions are and avoid possible blind spots in the • How it survived a 99 per cent vital for business success budget. drop in revenue • The benefits of automating your AP SAP Concur solutions help eliminate • The key traits Ben believes you process yesterday’s tedious tasks, make today’s need for a successful pivot • How your AP process can scale with work easier, and support businesses to • What’s next for a business with you run at their best. a depleted customer base? Learn more at concur.com or the SAP Ben will discuss the five Speakers Concur blog. attributes he believes are needed to Michael Benn, Accounts Payable execute a successful pivot: Passion, Consultant, SAP Concur Event manager: Rose Riley initiative, venture, agility, tenactity. Ryan Headington, Solutions Specialist, Phone: 0113 539 8780 The event will finish with some SAP Concur Email: [email protected] casual networking, giving you a chance to connect with other young directors and peers. Event manager: Ms Helena Drake Preparing for Brexit: IoD special Phone: 0113 243 0152 Email: [email protected] webinar with Deloitte Date: December 3 IoD Online: Coronavirus Time: 2pm-30m with European institutions. Location: Online Allie (left) provides the link between & the Implications for business and Government on increasing Business Interruption Join Brexit specialists from the IoD international trade and has authored a Insurance and Deloitte at this virtual event number of reports on trends in Date: December 9 to gain a deeper understanding both trade and trade policy, as Time: 2.30pm - 3.30pm of what you should be doing well as running a number of Location: Online now to prepare your business trade missions for IoD members for Brexit. The discussion will around the world every year. 2020 will go down as a year which include an update on She also routinely provides has dealt the business community negotiations with the EU and advocacy for the IoD on a range - across the world - a series of rest of world, as well as itemising of regulatory issues in Brussels. unprecedented challenges. all of the actions you should be Allie joined the IoD in April 2014. As directors turn to the business undertaking to be ready for January 2021. Prior to this, she was Research Director at interruption policies they put in Speakers will include: Allie Renison, Business for Britain, the campaign focused place to mitigate against these Head of Trade & EU Policy at the IoD and on renegotiating the UK’s relationship unforeseen events, many are being IoD East Midlands Policy Voice with the EU. met with the news that their cover is Ambassador, James Pinchbeck. Zoe Hawes is part of Deloitte’s global invalid. Have you experienced You will also her from Raoul Ruparel, Brexit insights team based in the UK. She issues in accessing support from Adviser to Deloitte and former special advises businesses on their Brexit- your insurance company as a result adviser to the Prime Minister on Europe; readiness planning, helping clients to plan of the Covid pandemic? This Zoe Hawes, Director, Global Brexit mitigating actions and identify targeted event from the IoD team Insights at Deloitte; and James Caldecourt, opportunities, with a particular focus on aims to help you access the help you Adviser to Deloitte and former special tax and supply chain. have put in place for your business. adviser at the DTI Zoe is also an Indirect Tax Director

Event manager: Allie Renison is Head of EU & Trade where she advises multinational Mrs Sophie Breeden Policy, and leads on devising businesses with complex global supply Phone: 0121 281 5530 recommendations and representing the chains. Email: [email protected] voice of members on EU policy matters both to Westminster and Whitehall and Book online at www.iod.com 36 WWW.IOD.COM After 2020... who deserves the spotlight in 2021?

Directors have performed heroics throughout 2020, keeping their businesses afloat and organisations functioning in the teeth of the Covid-19 hurricane. And while every single one deserves praise, which leader has stood out for you in the midst of the worst crisis any IoD Scotland National Director of us has ever faced? Who deserves Malcolm Cannon asked, “who special recognition? demonstrated tenacity and drive to keep We are delighted to announce that in their businesses going forward? Whose 2021 we will once again be holding the leadership steadied the ship when the IoD Scotland Director of the Year storm was at its worst?” Awards. We do not have an event date This year’s awards attracted over 200 yet – though we are hoping that by the entries – a record for the event – and time the awards come round we will be we’re hoping to break that in 2021. able to host the event in person. So start thinking about who you will But while we patiently wait for nominate. Entries will open early in vaccines and the news that Covid-19 is a 2021; keep an eye on https://www.iod. thing of the past, we want you to start com/events-community/regions/scotland thinking of the directors and business for further details as they are released. leaders who have impressed you with their response to the unprecedented Winners 2020: From the top, SME Director of the Year Marshall Dallas; Lynne challenges thrown at them this year, and Cadenhead of Women’s Enterprise Scotland, Director of the Year for Equality, Diversity consider nominating them for one of & Inclusion; Director of the Year (Large Business) Jim Galbraith; and Young Director of our awards. the Year Rebecca Bell of Spectrum Service Solutions Ltd.

Work begins on Class ScotRail backs engineering 380 train ‘makeover’ ScotRail has begun work to recruitment campaign refurbish its fleet of Class 380 electric trains ahead of their 10-year number of female train drivers has anniversary later in the year. increased by 39 per cent. And, the Key elements of the ‘makeover’ number of female conductors include the installation of new employed has also risen since 2017, by flooring, new seat upholstery, paint 16 per cent. refresh, and general repairs to ScotRail is supporting a campaign to Engineering Day took place on tables, bins and handrails. encourage more women and members Wednesday, 4 November, and is The overhaul is taking place at the of the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic UK-wide campaign from The Royal Shields Road Depot in Glasgow, community into careers in engineering. Academy of Engineering. with each train taking around two With the slogan, Not all engineers wear Karen Wallace, ScotRail Equality, weeks to complete. hard hats, we’re determined to break Diversity and Inclusion Manager said: The 38-strong fleet of trains consists down stereotypes and attract young “Historically, engineering has not been of 130 carriages and is ScotRail’s people from all backgrounds, not only a sector that has attracted women or second largest fleet of electric to engineering jobs in the rail industry, people from Black, Asian or Minority trains. Class 380s were introduced but to other organisations and sectors. Ethnic communities, and at ScotRail we to Scotland’s Railway in December Engineering is an exciting and are absolutely committed to changing 2010, operating in Ayrshire and rewarding career but currently, only 12 that. There is a place and space for Inverclyde initially, but now serve per cent of Britain’s engineers are everyone at ScotRail. customers across the country. women, with just nine per cent from “Not all engineers wear hard hats is Black, Asian, or Minority Ethnic designed to challenge the conceptions backgrounds, so the country faces a behind engineers. significant skills and diversity challenge “There are so many varied and exciting in the sector. opportunities within ScotRail for We’re committed to developing a engineering apprentices from all workforce as diverse as the backgrounds. There has never been a communities it serves. Since 2017, the more exciting time to be an engineer.”

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